Romancing the Romantic

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The minute the aircraft took off, instantly Lee remembered what he had forgotten. He even demanded that the plane should return back to the runway but Oscar didn't have any of that. They'd manage to calm the raging Lee that kept murmuring "Irie," alongside with "I haven't said bye."

 

Despite Oscar seeing his friend in another light, a stupid kind of light at that, he'd mentioned that Irie was one of the new worker for Montclaire. Lee felt happy and pissed; ecstatic for the fact that Irie would finally be of the same company as his and livid for Oscar managed to hire an investigator to tail Irie. Laughing, Oscar didn't thought, even in his wildest dreams, that his son-of-a-gun best friend would stir quite the fuss over someone.

 

Weird, Flippant and Fickle; those were the words that close acquaintances of Lee would describe him, including Oscar. He's too capricious in letting someone in and frivolous to those person he deemed not worthy to be talk to. Oscar wondered how Lee managed to befriend Irie, a yakuza oyabun. It might just be a pace, Oscar contemplated. As he stared at his retarded best friend who was merrily flirting with the flight stewardess despite the cold facade Lee was concocting.

 

Was he even aware of what he's doing!? Oscar heavily sighed, frustrated that his friend might lead someone into something he's isn't even capable of fulfilling in the first place. Oscar be damned, heads will roll if Lee happened to piss of the yakuza. Lee might be a man of power but with people who can play dirty, even his best friend will be having a hard time putting out the fire.

 

Oscar prayed that this premonition of his won't come true, knowing the diva that he is.

 

 

 

 

 

Two days passed in a blur, Lee couldn't reckon that he'd managed the stingy Lebedev to sign the contract that easily. All they did was talk and drink vodka while fishing in the docks. Maybe Lebedev just wanted to know more about the person he's selling his shares with. The scary man also warmed up with Ivanenko after Sasha relayed his talent of drinking one bottle of vodka in one go. It starts with vodka and ends with vodka, Montclaire thought.

 

He couldn't even get started with Oscar, once they've step foot in Russia, the guy just disappeared without a trace and reappeared with lots of souvenirs in hand. Lee often wonder, no, always doubt why he's friend with him. The guy was weird as he could possibly get.

 

Still none of these two whackjobs didn't even notice that birds of the same feather flock together.

 

"So what's inside that box?" Oscar cut him out of his reverie as the guy stared at the box Lee was holding preciously with apprehension. The both of them boarding Montclaire's jet back to Japan.

 

"Nothing. Now get your mug away from me, man."

Annoyance loitering all over his face.

 

"Oh it's a gift to the young Oyabun. Hmp you didn't even give me souvenirs when you go to other countries," Oscar fake sulked but Lee countered him with a slap the moment the poor guys hands reached the wooden box.

 

Hopefully the gift he's willing to give the blond would appease his sudden absence. Lee smiled as he hugged the box tightly. He'd finally get to see Irie again, he's willing to meet him with no pretenses of being a hobo and whatnot.

 

Finally.

 

"Oi cut the rape face some slack." Oscar jeered and again another round of non-sense debate occured.

 

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Irie's job orientation went smoothly and took three hours which consisted mostly of touring the building, introducing each department and briefing things about them, rules-- what to do and what's not allowed to do in the office. Typical basic stuff.

 

The day went great and Irie felt really ecstatic about starting tomorrow. He couldn't hide his dorky smile while walking home. Oh how he wished he could tell someone how he felt and thought of one person he could confide his feelings to-- Lee. The thought brought a sudden sadness in his chest, which made it worse when he decided to drop by at the park and the homeless man wasn't there. He tried looking around the vicinity but there's no such luck. Irie suddenly felt empty as he really couldn't understand why this has become such a huge deal for him.

 

"What am I even hoping for? He's just... "

 

Glancing at the time, he decided to just forget his sudden loneliness and grab that hair dye set on his way home.

 

---

 

The past two days had been very busy for Irie. He had already caught up with the routines in his new job and established friendships. The females were surprisingly clingy to him especially when Irie came in on his first day with his now jet black hair. That same female with the cute bob from day one said it added a lot to his appeal but Irie couldn't give a single damn about it; it's just hair, he thought.

 

Whenever he goes back home, he couldn't help but let his mind wander off every time he sees the park-- that precious bench where he first found Lee. That homeless guy with a profound mind and kind heart that helped him deal with his measly problem. That person who had left him smitten after nursing his foot badly from a shard of broken glass.

 

His poor heart is obviously missing Lee.

 

"There's this only one tip I could give you in falling in love properly-- Don't."

 

Flashbacks of Lee's advice recurred to him that he almost want to mentally kick his head. Should he rephrase those with 'Whoa dude, you fall too easily. You're not that stupid, are you?'

 

"No way. I'm not... In love with him..." Irie thought, frowning to himself. He shouldn't let petty things like this distract him especially during work. Not now that the meeting is about to start and Kawamura sure looks pretty confident today.

 

"So, the CEO will attend the meeting? " he asked his supervisor who's currently making silly noise with his swivel chair.

 

"Huh? Oh yeah. Sheez. Don't be scared. He doesn't bite but really, he's got such a stiff face. I call him... Err... Never mind. It's severely inappropriate..."

 

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"You fickle motherfucker. One moment you've wanted that villa so badly and then in an instant your attention diverted to the young Oyabun!?" Oscar ranted as he tried to usher the people who were bringing his heaps of souvenir from the Jet.

 

Lee wanted to add an insult but he can't really negate the fact that his attention has been sidetracked entirely. With all of those thought lurking in his head, Oscar handed him the key to the villa despite his inability to complete the wretched-drunk-contract they so constructed. Like a simple kid, Lee managed to happily skip towards the black Cadillac Escalade with the appearance of his wooden box right on his hip. Oscar even warned him not to show more of his retarded expression just because of the reputation and whatnot.

 

Lee was weird in his own way; one second an adult then the next a kid. Even when Oscar's been his friend through thick and thin it seems that Lee was still an enigma of its own. What was all the effort for that hobo plan to them!? Still, this is a living proof that rich people can do whatever they goddamn like and please.

 

"Overjoyed? Yeah I hope that enthusiasm would really appear since Josephine called me that you'd go directly to the office to have the quarterly meeting with the staff."

Uh-oh, landmine.

 

With that statement ahead, Oscar could feel the sunshine's turned drastically into a swamp of despair. Gazing at Lee's angry gaze, Oscar should've told him beforehand so the poor guy could prepare for some hour of rest. Though loaded people had all the luxury they wanted, there's this only thing they couldn't buy no matter what. Time. Despite having a jet lag from the trip, Lee was unable to rest for a minute from his ride from the airport to the company.

 

Oscar remained silent knowing fully-well that an angry Lee isn't someone you're supposed to mess around with. Montclaire's face turned an impassive block of ice as he emitted such cold aura that kept the driver on the edge of his seat.

 

With no time left to spare, Lee marched towards the conference hall as he directed Josephine to place the wooden box back in his office and to attend to Oscar's demands. His face held no little giveaway of what he was thinking but in reality he had urges to break every table he'd pass and mess the place. Couldn't do that, he'd snapped at the guy who was casually leaning and coping a feel at another staff like a gigolo when he's supposed to be doing his goddamn work. Such incapability wasn't needed in the company, Lee thought, plus, the guy was flirting with another person. Totally intolerable, especially in his territory with him catching the act.

 

"Are you always an idiot or just when I'm around?"

Lee smiled at the guy as he approached him casually.

 

A happy smile plastered on his face though everyone in the room remained so quiet that they could hear a pin drop.

 

"Mon---montclair-sama!!"

The guy's face drop a sheet of white as he stuttered and froze as a statue.

 

"Firing you will be the least of your worries now go back to work!"

His voice raised an octave as his palms still resting on the half-open door of the conference room. Not even liking how people started to stare at the scene like a deer caught in headlights he said in monotone,

" the show's over."

 

Damn, he felt the worse of a mood as an upcoming headache stirred inside his head.

 

Sitting on the chair reserved only for him, Lee managed to cut the guy who was mentioning his name in recognition.

"Enough with the idle talk, let's begin."

His eyes never surveying at the crowd as he swiveled his chair to face at the presentation ahead.

 

 

Mistakes. He should've surveyed his surroundings.

 

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A few minutes before the meeting starts, Irie had this uneasy feeling and he could not quite put a finger on any reasons why. Nervous and queasy and a little bit scared. He knew he had studied the presentation and quite frankly, it's not that tough. So why is he feeling this way now? Was it because he had been reminiscent of Lee lately? The man had practically disappeared ever since that morning after the drinking party. The now raven haired young man lowered his head in defeat trying to convince himself he's never going to see him anymore and should just accept the inevitable.

 

"Mon---montclair-sama!!"

 

Ah. The big boss has arrived.

 

Irie lit up and looked around, trying to see what this giant personality of a man looks like. Is he as awe inspiring as he thought the man would be? An old man with wise eyes and calm demeanor maybe?

 

The clearer Irie could hear the man approaching the conference room, the more he realizes how scary the boss sounds with his deep and solid voice... Which actually sounds familiar. One he had grown quite fond of-- only he remembers that voice as caring and gentle.

 

"Lee-san?" he thought, straightening up from his chair and darting his eyes towards the door.

 

His heart skipped a beat as the man entered the room. He couldn't believe his eyes! He knows what Lee looks like and this rather sophisticated man, who just took his place on the other side of the table, share the same face. The same shape of his eyes-- only more grumpy and filled with stress and lack of sleep, those pointy nose and tightly closed lips.

 

Irie had been staring at the boss for too long that he didn't hear Kawamura start the meeting. Graphics and Design Department is up first.

 

"And we will see now in this mock up of the new website..." Kawamura looked at the currently dazed Irie and gave him a slight tap on the arm to wake him up. "...Will definitely help clients easily navigate through our portfolios, easily view local and international projects. I, uh, would like to take this opportunity to introduce to you all our department's new design coordinator, Tsukishima Irie. He's the one who designed and developed the new welcome page of the company. I personally like the animation at the globe icon."

 

Irie stood up from his seat and took a slight bow from the gentle, welcoming applause he's been given.

 

Kawamura noticed Irie's lack of focus so he did most of the talking while Irie helped him by holding up the large cardboard mock ups in which he kept hiding his face to until the presentation is over.

 

"Any questions so far?" Kawamura smiled and looked at the crowd before them. One had raised their hand before inputting their query while Irie puts out the materials, still being conscious about the boss being his hobo friend's lookalike.

 

 

 

Please Register/ Sign In, in order to see the links.

 

 

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*Ipis ikemen is so handsome that it's just so distracting.lol awesum drawing btw.

 

"...Will definitely help clients easily navigate through our portfolios, easily view local and international projects. I, uh, would like to take this opportunity to introduce to you all our department's new design coordinator, Tsukishima Irie. He's the one who designed and developed the new welcome page of the company. I personally like the animation at the globe icon."

 

IRIE TSUKISHIMA.

 

His bored gaze turned alert as his head almost fell from his palms that were casually placed at the table. His chair swiveled back at the rest of the people inside the conference room searching for a certain blonde with an immaculate face. Apparently, he had no view of said blond as his eyes still roamed at the crowd much to the murmurs of the workers as to what spectacle would the CEO would continue again.

 

Lee removed his eyeglasses and placed them back hoping he didn't miss a familiar feature of Irie and then his eyes landed on a raven-haired beauty whose gaze also met his. As if he was the only person who'd done the whole makeover at their reunion, Irie had dyed his hair to a color that made Lee's smirk tug upwards.

 

After a moment of staring, Lee turned his head back to the front with a hesitant gaze back at Irie who was still looking at him suspiciously. Wondering if the blonde, no, the raven-haired male recognized him. Judging from Irie's curious stare, Lee assessed that the guy had no idea who he was. Still, it won't be long since he'll properly introduce himself after the wretched meeting.

 

Knowing that Irie made the aesthetically constructed web page, Lee turned his head back at Irie with no hint of emotion in his face despite feeling proud at his friend inside.

 

"For a newcomer, you've done a great job. Kawamura, show him the ropes in your department and make the guy comfortable."

Lee said in monotone, the rest of the crowd getting hyped up hoping they could also score to the chief like the new guy in the company.

 

Josephine without knocking the door barged inside the room holding some folders as she sashayed towards the CEO. Her satin dress hug her curves perfectly as she exude confidence with her cascading blonde of a hair and sharp blue eyes.

 

"Lee," as Josephine summoned his first name, the guy immediately turned towards the door as the woman practically dropped the folders at the table causing a loud thud.

 

"Your signature is needed in these proposals, make sure to sign them all since they've been delayed for quite a time." As soon as the blonde kept her instructions, Lee managed to read the files swiftly and carefully, his hands motioning the speaker to continue his report.

 

Josephine leaned in as she pointed the proposals that have the biggest proposed budget as well as the timeline and such. Lee stifled a yawn, feeling that he can almost collapsed right there since he badly needed some rest. Closing the rest of the folders, he resumed back at listening towards the speaker. Josephine sitting beside him as the blond inspected all of Lee's emails that became stagnant.

 

He couldn't help but cast a glance at Irie, hoping the raven-haired guy won't notice it.

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Its odd enough that the CEO reacted that way upon hearing Irie's name that heightened his suspicions on the man. As their gaze met, Irie immediately recognized that smirk. Its definitely Lee. There's no mistaking it!

 

"For a newcomer, you've done a great job. Kawamura, show him the ropes in your department and make the guy comfortable."

 

Irie was shocked upon hearing the compliments. Kawamura's eyes lit up and grinned happily before tapping a shoulder, congratulating him. Oh, how lucky he must be being favored by the CEO himself in such a short time.

 

"Thank you, sir. I really appreciate it. "

 

"But what is going on? He's the CEO? But what happened? He was a homeless guy just three days ago!

 

Irie finally took his glance away from the man and looked down, still trying to figure out how such things happen until a strikingly beautiful woman entered the room, calling the CEO by his name and confirming his suspicions.

 

"I don't get it..." He whispered to himself and took a seat. He suddenly felt woozy as Kawamura said his ending remarks letting the next speaker take his turn.

 

"Why are you so red?" The supervisor leaned in close and whispered.

 

"I get it. You're embarrassed. Aww, don't be! You did a great job and you deserve it." Kawamura smiled and jerked him by the elbow. "Such reactions. You can be quite cute sometimes, huh?"

 

"No... It's not like that. Don't mind me, Kawamura-san."

 

Irie felt uneasy the whole meeting since he left like he's being stared at. Now what? He doesn't know for sure that this guy here is truly his gentle, homeless friend. This CEO looks vicious and always ready to rip off someone's head when he's pissed off. If he truly is Lee, then, was the man just playing around to pass time? He could not wait until this meeting is over and hide in his cubicle for the rest of the day.

 

--

 

"Tsukishima! Congratulations about earlier. I heard from Kawamura-san that you've been praised by the CEO. That's rare! I'm so jealous!"

 

One guy said and tapped Irie's shoulder as soon as the two got back to their department. Two other females flocked around Irie and took the mouse of his computer to take a look at the new website, purposely leaning in extra close to the new employee.

 

"Hmm. It's true. You've done a good job. We should celebrate after work. Like a welcome party for Tsukishima. My name is Sakurada, Miho. Nice to meet you."

 

The flocking of employees around Irie grew bigger as he began to feel a little uncomfortable especially with those girls in their skimpy skirts bundled around him. It would be nice if someone stop them from gathering around too much and just go back to work.

 

 

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"Hey J, phone Kawamura's office and call the newbie for me," Lee ordered Josephine once he settled at the plush leather couch inside his huge impeccable office.

 

It was a huge room with a beige curtain that was draped at the room leaving the dim shadows to envelop the whole space. A huge glass desk with a background of Kyoto and its mountains were reflected at the glass walls of the room. Despite its pristine appearance, there were still files and paper loitering at the glass table and in the coffee table.

 

Lee lay down on the couch with his left arm atop his head and the other loosening his tie. He sure was tired as hell but he needed to converse with Irie before the guy could definitely grow hate towards him. He flinched at the idea of hate, it didn't blend well with their relationship. Not that they were so close together but they had a happy times and the poor guy needed to know more. Lee was the type of person who doesn't like someone to be left in the dark, he'd enough of that.

 

He needed to put reasons behind the doubt since he wasn't really that bad, weird but not evil. Though he can act the part in front of his employees that's why Oscar and Josphine were the only people who knew what he was behind the close doors of his office.

 

Glancing at the box again, he stood and placed it at his glass desk while he sat at the swiveling chair marveling the object like something close to divinity. Of course, he wanted to do this in some time of his life. It was definitely on his bucket list. Tapping his shoe he swiveled his chair back to the magnifique view that pulled his senses into relaxation. Sure Japan was a beautiful country, Lee thought.

 

As the tinted glass doors started to rattle, Lee turned his chair as he stared at Irie.

 

"Since I don't have a cat, this should suffice I guess,"

Lee said in monotone while rubbing the box affectionately.

 

The guy might have charms but the longer you know him, he's getting weirder. That's why Josephine couldn't take him so seriously, same goes for Oscar.

 

"Now sit."

He motioned to the couch directly in front of his table.

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Irie was quite unconvinced whether he'd be glad that the phone call saved him from all the chatter back in the department or be more anxious about who had summoned him. The CEO-- Possibly just Lee's lookalike or the real Lee who had just magically turned into a powerful person while he was away.

 

Ridiculous.

 

Irie couldn't help but stomp his foot and groan as soon as he was out of everyone's sight while walking down the pristine hallway to Lee's office. This is getting really frustrating. One minute he was reminiscing his good time with the hobo and the next, he felt like he's being toyed at.

 

Is this why he's being called upon-- that Lee will finally tell the truth behind all what ever this is? What would he say to him? What should he say to the boss? One thing is for sure. He's never to push the sass button because whoever this man is, he's still the boss he's going to start working for.

 

Irie held his breath as soon as he arrived at the said office, the tinted glass door having a rather intimidating vibe... Or maybe it's who's inside that's intimidating. He knocked for a bit but thought it's ridiculous so he gently opened it instead. Since you know, the boss is expecting his visit.

 

The sight of 'Lee's lookalike' in a suit and tie, all dolled up gives him headache. Even his mind it's still trying to adjust from the sight.

 

He mentioned something about a cat but he didn't quite catch it. He saw a box the man's holding dearly but he ignored it and immediately took the couch where the boss insisted and have decided not to talk unless he's allowed to.

 

He never took his wondering eyes off Lee since he arrived.

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With Irie's sudden docility, Lee couldn't help but get disappointed for a little bit. The idea that the brunette didn't notice his sudden enthusiasm of meeting him again despite the layers of cold facade he'd hidden was truly a Debbie Downer. Truly, Lee is a difficult man yet a part of him hoped Irie would welcome him with his usual shy smiles. Again, all wishful thinking.

 

"Here, I hope you like this,"

Lee stood and sat beside the couch with Irie.

 

The guy handed the brunette the small wooden crate that he couldn't part with. His green orbs starting to look for anything that could help him determine what the brunette was thinking at the moment. Pushing his eyeglasses up, Lee could mentally kick himself. Of course Irie was still hostile since he hadn't properly introduced himself. He should've introduced himself first rather than giving his presents first, that was stupid he thought.

 

Then all of a sudden, Lee stood up in front of Irie and bowed formally as he cognitively remembered how Japanese people show their utmost appreciation to someone. A handshake should've suffice but Lee felt that he needed to do something better than connecting both of their hands.

 

"I deeply thank you for taking care of me those days when I was at the park, Irie. I was really glad that someone approached me despite my looks before, you're really a great help,"

he faked laughed.

 

The awkwardness which he added with a scratch from his nape.Despite being good at dealing with business transactions Lee wasn't really fond of pleasantries. He might mingle with people yet he's just a bystander that has no intention of getting close to them. In Irie's case, it was different. He'd considered the guy his friend despite being a young oyabun. It did faze him, yes, but Lee had managed to cope up with the idea that Irie was nothing but harmless.

 

"As an appreciation for saving me those past days what would you want in return?"

Lee smiled as he returned to the leather recliner chair in front of his long glass table.

 

Lee didn't know the reason as to why he's nothing but pleasant towards Irie, afraid that the brunette might hate him or something.

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Irie took a deep breath, closing his eyes for a bit. All these changes-- surprises he'd got into had created chaos in his mind and the only thing that calmed them was the beautiful, green orbs which focused on him as Lee sat next to him. His hostile expression was wiped gone upon hearing Lee's gentle voice he had missed hearing since the hobo disappeared.

 

The man offered him a gift-- an expensive looking crate he had never seen before. Being offered with gifts is one thing Irie is familiar with ever since he was a kid. As the Oyabun's first son, people have offered him different kinds of gifts-- expensive ones such as toys, ornaments, clothes made from expensive cloth. He appreciates them but never indulged in it. It was part of what the limited things his mother had taught him before she died.

 

Gently opening the box, Irie's eyes widened upon seeing what's inside. He's never seen anything like it-- so regal and intricate. Beautiful was an understatement to describe the foreign ornament. He lifted his face to meet Lee's but the man bowed low before him. Another nostalgic feeling rushed to his senses as he remembered people bowing before them whenever there's a gathering in their house and such. Irie didn't mind the gesture much when he was younger, but Lee bowing before him felt a little off. He is his friend and bowing in courtesy is not necessary. He wanted to stop him but the CEO began to speak.

 

"I deeply thank you for taking care of me those days when I was at the park, Irie. I was really glad that someone approached me despite my looks before, you're really a great help...

 

"As an appreciation for saving me those past days what would you want in return?"

 

The brunette's lips suddenly pulled a frown.

 

"I would have helped anyone.. And I don't want anything in return. " he said, putting the box away and standing up.

 

"Lee-san... Uh, I mean... Sir... Ugh." he blushed heavily, covering his face with a hand in confusion. Now that he's working with him as the CEO, how is he supposed to address him now?

 

"There's just one thing I would like to ask you. Please don't fire me just because I am affiliated with the yakuza... I want to stand by my own two feet and not be labeled forever as a member of a ruthless group."

 

Irie glanced at the man sitting in front of him undulating with power and sophistication... And he'll be damned! He's a lot more handsome like this up close.

 

"That and... Can I still call you 'Lee-san' whenever I see you outside the office?"

 

Now he's just being too full of himself in front of the CEO...

 

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"There's just one thing I would like to ask you. Please don't fire me just because I am affiliated with the yakuza... I want to stand by my own two feet and not be labeled forever as a member of a ruthless group."

 

Heaving a sigh, his emerald orbs stared at Irie as he assessed the brunette. He could see that being an oyabun was a great burden to the latter. Which in fact is a first since Lee often times heard tales of people fighting for such position. Maybe, just maybe, Irie wasn't bad to the bones he thought.

 

"Of course, I won't. What do you think of me?"

Rhetorical it might be, Lee really wanted to know what Irie's thoughts of him.

 

Knowing the secret is out, he was hoping Irie would be shock but he wasn't really off the knockers and that made Lee proud. Other's would've took advantage of it, asking him some strange conditions or whatnot. Worse, blackmail him into something.

 

He really did choose a fine specimen of a friend.

 

 

"That and... Can I still call you 'Lee-san' whenever I see you outside the office?"

 

Was that his only request? Lee could almost laugh boisterously yet judging from Irie's serious and timid expression he abolished to do so. Approaching Irie, he smiled reassuringly and tapped the latter man's shoulders.

 

"It would be my pleasure to hear that from you, Irie."

 

Crap. Would've he added -san? Lee fret a little knowing that Japanese people really stick to their formalities. Hoping that Irie would be his lasting friend just like Oscar, Lee offered Irie a shake of hand not like transacting a business, more like rekindling their friendship.

 

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Irie looked up with a smile of both relief and pure joy. Now he knows who Lee really is; no more pretenses and disguises. Just the real Lee. Although the revelation took the brunette by surprise, he knows he's bound to know more about the man-- more surprises. Here and there. Sooner or later.

 

 

"You're just too full of surprises. I mean... Not that I'm complaining." Irie smiled shyly.

 

Although, even he himself knows he has his own set of pretenses to bring up to the public, his own was a little more delicate. One wrong move and everyone important in his life would be possibly put to danger. Irie would never allow that-- not to someone who speaks his name so gentle and so sweet. No one has ever spoken his name that way, not his father nor anyone in his family. That's why, in Irie's life, albeit a new character, Lee will always be special to him.

 

He took the other's hand and gently shook it. To some, It'd look like a warm welcome from a boss to an employee. But for Irie, it felt like a new found connection, a bond, an agreement that he never had in the past. Looking up at the male's clear, emerald eyes, the brunette felt reassured.

 

After their talk, Irie went back to his post together with the wooden crate Lee had given him. He will hold the gift forever precious to him as it'll serve as a token of the new phase of their friendship.

 

--

 

It only took two weeks until Irie had learned everything regarding his department's role in the company. He had been a diligent staff, working his hardest and even in late hours for presentations. He wanted to become a better version of himself. The Irie who had ran away from his mafioso family, the man who had been struck my many disappointments, heartbreaks, and failure. He had gained friends instead of just plain acquaintances; going to the typical drinking parties and karaoke nights that were filled with fun and laughter. These and more were the things he never experienced. What also makes working so much better is that he could see Lee everyday in Montclaire, whenever there's a departmental meeting and Lee secretly gives that slight smile of approval for Irie's job well done. He didn't need words. Just his smile alone can give the brunette an assurance that he can do more, everyday, to make Lee proud.

 

Three weeks upon entering Montclaire, Irie thought he could never do anything wrong.

 

It was another successful day for the design team and Irie had to go home now. He had to decline the drinking party tonight because he thought it's been happening too often lately. Everything has to be taken in moderation.

 

As soon as he stepped to his apartment's floor, blood drained from his face as to what greeted him-- who.

 

"Izakaya-san..?" Irie's choking voice spoke.

 

This scene. This oh, so familiar scene of his family showing up unexpectedly in front of his doorsteps is getting annoying. The first one who gave him a visit can still be reasoned out. But this man, the lawyer of the Tsukishima's is a very persistent man, to the point of being dangerous.

 

Izakaya Takao.

 

"You've been away for too long, Waka-dono. I won't beat around the bush like Irumi-dono did. It's time to go back home."

 

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Lee felt proud as days passed by seeing how Irie had managed to impress him and the rest of the department heads by storm. Despite not being the front runners, the Design Team had made huge effort that made the bar graphs higher and the percentages greener. His former street friend was truly an indispensable asset, Lee thought.

 

He never failed to mention to Oscar how proud he was with Irie. Though it will be a matter of moments Oscar will get tired of his usual Irie-praising monologue.

 

"At 12 noon you'll dine with the general manager of Teito Broadcasting. Then from 1 to 5 pm you'll have a meeting with the rest of the officers from the sub-branches of Montclaire in Japan. At 6 pm you'll prepare yourself for the Kyoto Charity Ball which will be held at-----"

 

The rest of Josephine's words passed like a static in Lee's ears as his eyes mirrored the dancing lights of Kyoto. Like the usual, his schedule was worse than ever. With only four hours to spare for sleeping, he's starting to get angry with the pattern. Going back to Japan would usually cause such stress at him yet no matter how Kyoko and Oscar suggested him to return back to HQ, Lee didn't have none of it.

 

More like, he doesn't want to go back anymore. Investors and partners of Monclaire Co., knew that the young master of Montclaire was in Japan and they took considerable effort to have a word with him. That was the reason his schedules are so packed, because everyone wanted a piece of him.

 

His money and shares, to be precise.

 

Quite a ferocious feat, these Japanese people were. They're too hardworking for their own good.

 

"--on tuesday you need to skim through all the important emails I've forwarded to you--. Hey Lee are you even listening!?" Noticing Josephine's sudden sourness, Lee turned his head just to be greeted by a barely fuming she-devil holding a tablet.

 

"I'm vacant 5 to 6 right? I'll head out a bit."

He sighed as he stared at the Rolex watch on his wrist.

 

The time is clicking, he better get his stuff done before the clock strikes five. With the sudden motivation, a smile drew on his lips, pushing the two glass doors with Josephine hot on his trail.

 

Maybe it's time to visit his brunette friend.

[Choco Berry]

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Before Irie realize it, there were three men inside his flat other than him, the two being the largest of them all; Takuzo and Takuya, the twins in their group. They're basically the two main bodyguards of his father. He remember all too well these guys back when he was young-- they would always follow him wherever he goes like stalkers during his junior high years. They would wear Hawaiian shirts and shorts because they said people would be terrified if they walk in suits all the time. The Hawaiian shirts didn't help either.

 

"I've told Irumi that I won't go back and that's final."Irie said, clenching his fists in annoyance.

 

The old man with droopy eyelids and totally fiendish smile turned to him after checking out a small book that was on top of the coffee table. The smile disappeared.

 

"You don't understand, Waka-dono. I'm not here to negotiate with you. You don't have a choice." He took his round glasses off and wiped it with a cloth before putting it back. Irie held his breath and stepped back.

 

"Your father's very ill. At least visit him even for a week. That won't hurt, waka."

 

Irie paled, his fists dropping down loose on his sides. Last time he checked, his father is as tough as a bull. He had always have this impression of him as an unbeatable, strong pillar of the group. Well, shocking. He's still human after all.

 

"Ill... Huh."Irie looked away with painful expression in his eyes. He couldn't help but feel guilty at the moment.

 

Izakaya raised his brow in annoyance, obviously tired of all these talks.

 

"Waka, do you really have to be so stubborn even at this situation?" The old man nodded at the two men who suddenly barged in Irie's room, basically just to pack Irie's things up.

 

"Hey what are you... Don't go in there! Takuzo! Takuya!"

 

"Don't you think I don't know you're working in a company now? What was it... Montclaire? Do you really need me to threaten you... Your new position in that company... Or worse, destroy that company itself?"

 

Does Irie knew this man, the household lawyer, Izakaya Takao would simply give up from a simple negotiation? Of course not. He will do whatever it takes to get what he wants and do what's need to be done. He's got connections, of course he'll know what's going on in the brunette's current life. He shouldn't have gambled his luck from the beginning... Irie will just ruin people's lives if he keeps this up.

 

"No... Please. Don't do that. They have nothing to do with me. Please..." Irie said his voice trembled in shock.

 

"Tomorrow... Tomorrow night... I'll go see him. I'll go see father tomorrow night. Just please don't mess up with that company. Keep them out of this..."

 

He couldn't stand even just the image of Lee getting caught up in this hot mess.

 

Takuzo and Takuya emerged from the room with Irie's bags full of clothes. Putting them down as per Izakaya's signal, the old man sighed.

 

"Very well. I'll pick you up at 9 tomorrow night. Make sure you file a leave at work. See you then, Waka-dono."

 

The once packed living room suddenly became cold and deserted as soon as the men left. Irie huddled himself close as he sat on the corner of his living room, shaking in fear-- not for himself but for the people around him. Especially Lee's. He should never be entangled with his family... With him. But the idea of him not being able to see the man terrified Irie.

 

Maybe it won't be just a week's visit after all....

 

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The work caught his ass real time. Enough with all of the business professional facade of his, Lee really wanted to escape everything and return back to his hobo business. At least in that condition he wouldn't worry about stock involving, stress inflicting financial reports of his.

 

Surely reality ate him up as he started to go to work and enjoy life less. That's what he's supposed to be doing, the usual protocol of having work as the first priority above anything else. Montclaire's didn't just stood atop the myriads of competitors.

 

They always excelled.

 

Be it their welfare, family or even love life. Lee could've sworn his family would've given their souls just to have prosperity rushing through their bank accounts. People with power seek more. Greed versus Greed. Nothing was supposed to stop Monclaire's immeasurable drive for power.

 

Well except for Lee, he's a bit of a special crayon inside a crayola box.

 

 

 

 

 

 

With all the smiles that he could've mustered, he made no haste and went to Irie's apartment after the long grinding hours finishing his work. Josephine was still tagging with him since Lee's been notorious with all the disappearing act he could muster like a ninja. Keeping an eye on him, Josephine was stalking behind him looking quite pissed that they have to take a detour instead of choosing the proper Armani to be used during the Charity Ball.

 

"Why are we in front of Irie Tsukishima's apartment?" Despite sounding arrogant, Josephine was somewhat curious.

 

"Visiting my lover."

He said nonchalantly which made Josephine gasp at excitement. Certainly this capable secretary of his had this strong inclination towards homo-erotica.

 

To Lee it was supposed to be a joke yet to Josephine it seemed real as the gears in her head was starting to turn with all of her hopeful doe eyes staring at Irie's door.

 

"OMG, Lee. You son of a gun! so being a skirt chaser was just your cover huh. You look cute together, when are you going to get married? Will it be in Holland!? I can arrange the tulips."

Her eyes gleamed with excessive sparkle as she continued ranting about this wildest dreams she shouldn't spoken of.

 

"Jesus woman! I was just joking."

He hushed whisper with a disappointed looking Josephine.

 

Yikes. He shouldn't toy with his secretary that cruelly. Lee didn't want an acrimonious she-devil ruining his everyday life. Not that certain person who plans everything in his schedule.

 

Pressing the doorbell, the both of them waited for Irie to open up the door. Lee did brought with him a box of manju, hoping Irie would like a leisure talk in that minimal spare time of his.

 

If someone would tell Lee a year ago that he's the one doing the visiting instead of the other way around, he'd literally laugh it off. The jokes on him, definitely.

 

 

 

 

[Choco Berry]

--

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Irie was just about done moping when he heard the doorbell. God, this isn't the time for some neighborhood chit chat or a salesperson to sell him that same useless spinning, self-cleaning mop. He didn't have time to smoothen his disheveled appearance but he at least pushed his hair back as he opened the door.

 

*"I'm sorry but I'm not... Interested... Lee-san...?"

 

Damn. Lee would be the last person he would want to visit at this moment, but taking a second thought, the man must have squeezed a tiny amount of time to pay him a visit. The puffy eyes and pinkish nose would probably be an embarrassment when facing your boss. Also, the woman next to him seems familiar. Oh, it's his secretary. The second thought that came to his mind was what if those men from earlier were still around? He looked around in a slight panic. The coast is clear, apparently.

 

"Lee-san! I mean... Montclaire-sama... Good evening. I thought it was the salesperson... Please come in."

 

The brunette hurriedly opened the door and let the pair come in, feeling a little shy from his rough appearance; his red tie hung loosely around his neck while his white dress shirt's sleeves were rolled up haphazardly on both arms.

 

He looked at the somewhat regal pair and blushed. Goodness, these foreigners really do look good standing next to each other. They reminded him of Greek gods and goddesses and he looked like trash standing next to them.

 

"Ah... I have to apologize for my appearance. I just got home and... Anyway. What brings you here, Sir? Ma'am?"

 

He had to at least hide his panic because no matter how little the hints are, Lee would notice it. Definitely.

 

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"Now look at you two going at it, he's all flustered now!" Josephine whispered quite enthusiastically.

 

Despite the calming presence she was parading, she couldn't help so hyped about the two person she'd never find too compatible for her liking. To Lee's dismay, he shouldn't have fed Josephine those lies cause' it really did bite him immediately in the ass. His poor excuse of a secretary just make the things more awkward.

 

With great effort to ignore his secretary since Lee's time was rather ticking faster in his perception, he grabbed Irie's hands and led the both of them to his bedroom. Then again a squeal came from the woman he brought with him which greatly annoyed the CEO.

 

Since he didn't want to let Josephine hear the both of them conversing, he just barged himself inside Irie's private sanctuary. It was stupid of him to realize it a little bit late but judging from the person's rigid expressions, Irie's was fighting another demon in his mind.

 

Again.

 

He knew something was up. Of course something was always up in a life of Yakuza Oyabun like Irie. His lifestyle required 24 hours of drama compared to Lee's stressful chronicles. He sometimes wished he had Irie's drama, from his annoying brother problems down to the heartbroken ones. He guessed it wouldn't be too bad compared to shouldering a whole group of corporations.

 

But who was he to assess that his problems are more crucial than Irie's? The poor brunette was just too transparent or was he just so keen at observing every expression? Maybe the latter, he thought.

 

"Yo."

He said as he ushered Irie to his own bed which was kind of stupid knowing that he's the stranger of the house.

 

"Montclaire-sama? Really, Irie? I thought we're more than that."

He faked sulk as he slumped at the comfort of Irie's bed.

 

Theatrics won't be bad, Lee thought. Why was he trying to be buddy-buddy with a Yakuza's son anyways!?

[Choco Berry]

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Irie suddenly had a rollercoaster of emotions; from his confusion to the secretary's enthusiastic reaction up to the slight shock when Lee brought themselves to his bedroom. However, he sighed a breath of relief, thanking the man for doing such thing. The brunette wouldn't be able to concentrate talking out there with an unknown party around. Not when it's about his dark background teetering back in his once peaceful life. Irie gasped a shaky breath, his face finally broke to a petrified look. Although, inappropriate at the time it might be, he couldn't help but find the CEO's tone to be so charming; it lightened the mood. Everything is so much better when he's with Lee...

 

 

"I'm sorry, Lee-san. It's just that...They were here just half an hour ago... The family lawyer and my father's bodyguards." he started with a hushed and tad shaky voice, but his eyes never left Lee's. "My father became very ill and asked if I could at least visit him... Lee-san, were there anyone around when you arrived here? Someone suspicious? I'm afraid they'll find out I'm friends with you..."

 

Irie had to gasp for air as he literally just talked continuously, not realizing he's holding Lee's hand rather tightly until now--he quickly let it go.

 

 

"It's not that I didn't want you to be here. In fact, I'm... glad you're here." His eyes glanced down with a hint of a shy smile lingering in his lips. How he wish he'd never let go of that hand after all. It was a first and he could still feel a tingling sensation from that strong, firm grasp earlier.

 

 

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Upon hearing Irie's own struggle of visiting his father or not, Lee couldn't help but wonder why this relationship became so estranged. Even with his siblings, all they did was fight and fight. Though he's not experienced to familial ties, Lee could've sworn that Irie's family is somewhat on a ruckus.

 

He couldn't divulge himself to get in between the problem and all's left to do was watch from the sidelines. No matter how he concerned himself with the latter boy's problem, he couldn't even lift a finger despite all the power that he had. It was Irie's problem, not his.

 

It's never been a good idea to meddle with other affairs but Lee couldn't help not to worry for Irie. Judging from the brunette's pained face, all Irie wanted was for his family to understand his wishes. Was it that really bad? Was his father that scary that he couldn't say what he wanted to say?

 

"Strange person? Hmm I haven't seen someone close to that description."

With his fingers tracing his chin, Lee wondered if Irie's in a danger.

 

It was stupid of him to assume that this strange people was causing harm to the guy. They just wanted to have their oyabun back, Lee thought. Those people won't harm him, he's out of the picture, he assessed.

 

"It's not that I didn't want you to be here. In fact, I'm... glad you're here."

 

With that praise, Lee couldn't help but shy away as he gave the faintest blush while scratching his nape. He felt happy that Irie shared his burden to him instead of hiding it. Why was he acting such a simpleton in front of Irie when in fact he's everything cold and rude!? It was a total mystery for Lee.

 

"Whew and here I thought I was annoying,"

he humored himself as he looked away from the brunette.

[Choco Berry]

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Sighing in relief, the brunette felt assured, not for himself but for Lee. The men from earlier should have been gone long before Lee arrived. It should be okay. That being said, he could now relax; savor the moment while the always busy CEO of a friend of his finally visited him. It's been so long. Last time Lee was in this house was when he's still in that play-pretend hobo. Seeing this beautiful creation of the heavens next to him again-- sitting on his bed, is beyond he could have ever hoped for. Before he could give off that creep-staring-at-a-guy-for-too-long vibe, he took his eyes off him.

 

"You're not annoying. If anything, I'd say I've missed you." Did that just slipped off his mouth? Damn. He looked away feigning a laugh too hide his embarrassment.

 

"Where are my manners? I should greet my guests properly. It's a bit rude leaving your secretary alone in the living room while we chat here." He's thankful that it's quite dark in his bedroom or he'll embarrass himself for blushing deeply in their current situation. Too much sexual tension, huh? No. It's probably just him. Who is he kidding? Irie stood up, brushing his hair through his fingers. Suddenly his once chilly room felt a little hot.

 

"So... I, uh... Why don't you wait outside? I smell of sweat, I need to change into a cleaner shirt. I'll serve cold drinks when I get out, okay?" Irie turned to Lee and started unbuttoning his dress shirt. He knew the man had seen his back tattoos before, and knew he's gay. Lee didn't really have a rat's ass about those facts before, but...

 

Oh, what the hell.

 

He turned his back towards Lee, facing his closet and just undressed.

 

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When Irie kind of slipped the word miss in the sentence, he couldn't help but feel something foreign inside of him. Of course women praised him, far sensual even but when it came from Irie it's completely different. Despite being a self-proclaimed gay, Irie doesn't even held the air of feminism in him. Not that all gay guys needed to portray one though, especially not a man from a Yakuza family.

 

Sighing from the thoughts that had cause a little turmoil, he leaned both of his arms at the comfortable mattress while his eyes stalked Irie like a harmless predator.

 

He felt like protecting the guy and at the same time, a tiny part of his head wanted to pounce at him. It was starting to get absurd. He was not gay though he's not someone who would burn and stab homosexuals with pitchforks. Moving his glasses upwards, he glanced away when Irie started to unbutton his shirt.

 

Crap, did the guy have to add another tenfold of tension!? Irie might wanted him to leave the room but it seems that his foot remained uprooted in place. Or was it his wishful thinking to watch Irie naked.

 

When did he even get that perverted for a man?

 

Mouth agape, Lee couldn't take his eyes off at the intricate tattoo at the back of Irie. The first he saw it he was amazed, the second, stupefy. With no ounce of reason, his legs move towards Irie's direction. Closing their gap, Lee could feel the warmth emanating from the both of them. The sensation that twirled inside his heart, clenching it into action.

 

"Irie."

He stated softly tracing the tattoo over his scalding fingertips.

 

 

 

Josephine's desires would come true after all.

[Choco Berry]

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The silence between them suddenly felt deafening. The brunette thought he had requested Lee to wait outside but why the hell is this man still in his room?! He could take his shirt off; that would have been a good sign that he needs privacy, but after waiting for a good five to ten seconds, the man was still there. Sitting still. On his bed.

 

Thump... Thump... Thump...

 

He had never felt his heart drum against his chest this way, ever. A strong, tingling sensation crept up his spine knowing exactly it was Lee's stare, seeping right through his skin. It could be that the man was still awestruck by his tattoos--anyone would be. He secretly wished it wasn't just that. The young future oyabun sighed and was about to make a snide comment on Lee insisting to stay while he dressed, but the sudden sensation from the man's fingertips on his back surprised him. It held Irie petrified as Lee finally closed the gap between their bodies.

 

Hot... The room suddenly felt constricted and steamy...

 

The brunette looked up at the mirror in front of him, taking a glance at their reflection-- Him, almost being pinned against the closet mirror and Lee's massive, god-like of a body pressed behind him... Like a predator lurking behind his prey. God, he loved the sight.

 

 

Irie didn't utter a word. As his intense, wanting eyes glued on the reflection in front of him, he lifted his chin up and craned his neck. His cold right hand reached up, finally returning that caress on Lee's neck until he could grasp on the man's collar. If anything, all he needed was shift his ass until it brushed up against Lee's crotch, sending a shrill gasp off his lips.

 

 

It's taking a huge effort not to get hard from the situation, but Irie's failing miserably.

 

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An invitation like no other, Lee stepped in accommodating his body towards Irie, securing their closeness. The warmth emanating from the both of them with the intensity of the gazes each of them mirrored with desire. Completely entrapped in their world; ecstatic, heart-throbbing--

 

--Arousing.

 

Judging from the distance, Lee could see Irie's crystal orbs curtained with his long lashes, the plump lips that begged to be touched in sensuality. A sin no longer at fault, Lee wouldn't have thought that it was 'that' kind of desire that he kept with Irie. The sole desire not as a friend but something that desired for more.

 

Despite having a hard-on he kept his reigns quite tightly as his left arm slowly caressed the back of Irie. Holding him in an entrapped embrace, Lee kept the distance with a promise of safety and longing. The warmth he had given plus Irie's cold hands, made Lee smile at the brunette.

 

Opposites.

 

"I see. This is how it is,"

He chuckled at the sudden realization of his own feelings.

 

Couldn't wait to have a taste, his lips softly landed at Irie and left quite swiftly as he tested the brunette's reaction. Unable to distinguish which part of his was throbbing, the head, the head, or his junior, Lee couldn't help but delve deeper to have a taste for another kiss.

 

Slow, sensual and mad; a kiss not befitted for a woman yet solely for Irie Tsukishima.

 

Only his.

[Choco Berry]

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Irie's eyes fluttered but never closed after finally getting an affirmation that their feelings at the moment are mutual. Mutual desires of both want and growing lust. Of both craving for body contact to gripping of fingertips against their scalding skins. Irie's secret desire for this particular man is now bearing fruit-- not that he's actually pursuing Lee. None of them probably have a clear head for the situation. All Irie wanted was to be held by the man who unintentionally waltzed in his life and changed it forever. He slowly faced the man behind him, eyes locking into a vibrant gaze.

 

 

Lee Saiyounji Montclaire.

 

 

The name-- so foreign and somewhat impossible to mingle with even for a small person like Irie-- is now holding him with pure intimacy. Every touch of his large, manly hands created a map on his tattooed skin, burned and marked him every inch of its way. Irie closed his eyes, memorizing the sensation as he might never feel them again in the future.

 

His hands did their own trip as well, his slender fingertips kept on tugging the man's dress shirt on the collar and on Lee's left sleeve, gripping and crumpling the smooth fabric as if wanting them off. No fair. He let out a light grunt and shaky sigh when he shifted, feeling his own erection throb against the others growing desire down there. The brunette's once calm and serene expression was twisted into a pained and lustful one.

 

"Nnn... A-ahhh..!" So huge...

 

 

Stop. We shouldn't. This is wrong!

 

 

His sanity kept on nagging at him. He was about to either pull away or push Lee off, but then his itching lips were sealed with a light brush off Lee's own. His eyes flushed open in plain shock.

 

Fuck whatever's stopping him as he leaned in for more while pulling the taller male's collar.

 

Hungry and passionate lips synched and crashed like vicious ocean waves hit the rocky shores. Irie had finally blocked whatever silly things that's stopping him and just indulged to Lee's touch and kisses.

 

 

There's no turning back now.

 

 

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[gin]

--Shit, be still my heart.

 

His mental restraint snapped as he heard Irie's sensual moan. It's as if its urging him to do more and Lee made sure he did more. Slowly infiltrating Irie's mouth, Lee tasted the brunette's hot cavern. Memorizing each nook and cranny as his tongue pinned the other for dominance. His eyes opened slowly as he longingly watched Irie's face plagued with pleasure and defiled lust.

 

Smiling he grabbed a fistful of hair as he deepened the kiss more, wanting to blend the both of them and drown into the pits of ardor. Lee thought that it was not really bad kissing another male compared to a woman who relied into his slow and sensual kisses. In Irie's case, he did nothing of that.

 

It wasn't aggressive neither diffident, Irie also had relayed his longing well enough to reciprocate Lee's torrid kisses. Needing to gasp for air, Lee immediately stopped antagonizing Irie's lips. Giving feathery kisses to the brunette's chin then down to his neck, Lee felt like he couldn't wait anymore.

 

His hands finding comfort under Irie's shirt, memorizing the heat of the latter's skin. Lee closed his eyes and pursed his lips, Irie should've stop him or else he'd take the oyabun in a flash.

 

With waves of arousal rushing towards him, he couldn't help but nipped Irie's neck, his eyes taunting Irie to delve towards gratification together with him. His nothing close to the art of seducing someone but Lee could've do it if it's needed to be done.

 

Unable to hold the reasons, Lee pushed Irie's half naked body to the bed, with him hovering above the guy. His body caged Irie towards the soft mattress of a bed as he proceeded his advances. His huge warm hands slowly traveled at Irie's naked chest, finding solace at those pink nipples of his.

 

 

 

Tongue licking his lips, his eyes enthralled with known sexual desire.

"頂きます*"

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

^{*itadakimasu.}